Lee Road United Methodist Church had its beginning in the home of the Reverend and Mrs. D.W. Smith on February 9, 1958.  Nine interested people joined them to explore interest in organizing a church in the growing suburb of Greenville.  They quickly outgrew the Smith’s home and rented a storefront on Elberta Street in Taylors.

Official organization as a Methodist church was held May 21, 1958 with 33 charter members.  The extraordinary dedication and sacrifice to see Lee Road established as a worshiping and serving community of faith was evident.  Outgrowing the storefront, they broke ground for an educational building on December 5, 1958.

The small but enthusiastic group wasted no time becoming involved in mission and ministry activities.  The Women’s Society of Christian Service was organized in February, the Sunday School in April, the Men’s Club in November and Boy Scout troop #245 in December.  The Methodist Youth Fellowship was also organized in 1958.  Verner Springs, a forerunner of the Greenville Urban Ministry, was the first mission project.

God has richly blessed the faithful witnessing of his people at Lee Road.  Our growth in spiritual awareness and missional commitment has been matched by a corresponding growth in numbers and material resources.  During Reverend Smith’s ministry, membership grew from zero to 290.  He saw the addition of more classrooms in 1960 and the sanctuary in 1963.  The parsonage was built in 1967 for the first full-time minister.  The Family Life Building, now the Howard Family Life Center, was built in 1971.  This building gave rise to the Methodist District Basketball League of which we continue to be actively involved.

Recognizing the needs of young children, the church began a kindergarten program September 1966, then added  a Mother’s Day Out program. The weekday program has grown into a five day a week Child Enrichment Program.

Fifty years since that first meeting, Lee Road UMC has grown to a membership of 518.  Average attendance at the 10:30 Sunday morning worship service is 190.  Sunday School is available for all ages at 9:15 A.M.  UM Youth Fellowship welcomes interested youth to the Sunday evening program.  Wednesday evening is alive with supper, fellowship, study and choirs.

Mission involvement started by our “founding fathers” gave foundation to the symbol of the basin and towel as we continue in ministry to be “The Servant Church.”